Abu Dhabi developer Tamouh is working closely with the government to set up an affordable housing project on the Al Reem island, said a report.

The company aims to create 5,000 to 7,000 housing units in the initial phase under an initiative mandated by Abu Dhabi's Urban Planning Council.

Some time early next year, Tamouh expects to have the approved blueprint in place for the project, the Gulf News reported citing a top official.

'We have already allotted plots, submitted detailed construction designs for our affordable houses,' said Joe Ong, managing director.

The nature of the development is such we will have to work closely with the government on this, he added.